Agra

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Agra: The Taj City

Agra is also called the city of Love because the structure symbolizes one of the greatest love stories of medieval India, Taj Mahal, stands tall here. Agra is a city on the banks of the river Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh, India. Agra is a famous tourist spot and is best known for Taj Mahal designated a UNSECO World Heritage site in 1983. It is a sneak peek into the architectural history and legacy of Mughal Empire.

Getting to and from Agra

Agra is well connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Varanasi and many other Indian cities.

Train: Agra is very easy to reach by train – but be aware that Agra has several train stations so do check which yours comes into and leaves from. Agra Cantt (Cantonment) is the largest with the majority of trains arriving into and out of. To or from Delhi, the best train to get is the 12050 / 12049 Gatimaan Express – currently one of India’s fastest trains – which runs between Hazrat Nizamuddin in South Delhi to Agra Cantonment.

Tourist places in and around Agra:

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal or ‘Icon of Love’ is also one of the Seven Wonders of the World. The Taj Mahal is considered to be the world’s best example of Mughal architecture. The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built it in the memory of his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal. It also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan himself. Made of white marble in 17th century, Taj Mahal is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. Taj Mahal can be accessed through three gates. Over 20,000 people from India and nearby countries worked on this striking building. Specialist were brought form far away as Europe who produced the beautiful marble screens and marble inlay which is made of semi-precious stones. Taj Mahal is considered to be the greatest architectural achievement in the whole range of Indo Islamic architecture. The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNSECO site in 1983 for being “the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage”. Taj Mahal stands as a depiction of love which Shah Jahan had for his wife and was built in memory after her untimely death.

Facts of Taj Mahal:

Taj Mahal is named after Shah Jahan’s Favourite wife- Mumtaz Mahal.
Precious stones were imported from outside India.
Taj Mahal appears in varying shapes throughout the day.
There was almost the Black Mahal as well.
Taj Mahal is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
It has Islamic calligraphy inscriptions all over.
The pillars were constructed to fall outwards in case of collapse to prevent them from falling on the tomb.
Nearly 8 million visitors come every year.

Open: Every day except Friday.
Timings: Morning 6 am to 6:30 pm everyday
Night time views 8:30pm to 12:30 am ( 5 days a month, full moon night two days before full moon and two days after full moon).
Entry fee:
Indian Rs 50
Foreigners: Rs 1300
Best time to visit: Best time to visit Agra is from October to March when the weather is favorable.

Historic medieval Agra Fort made of red sandstone at sunrise with moody sky. Agra Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site

Agra Fort: Red fort

Agra fort also known as Red Fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565. It was served as the main residence of Mughals until 1638, when the capital was shifted from Agra to Delhi. It is a UNSECO World Heritage site. The fort is described as wall city. The fort contains splendid palaces both in red sandstone and white marble built by two generations of prolific builders, Akbar, Jahangir and later Shahjahan. It contains the Pearl Mosque (Moti Masjid) constructed of white marble, and a palace, the Jahangir Mahal.

Monuments within the Fort:

Jahangiri Mahal:

The Palace was mainly used by Rajput wives of Akbar. The palace gateways leads to an interior courtyard surrounded by grand halls covered with profuse carvings on stone, heavily fashioned brackets, piers and crossbeams. It was one of the most important buildings of Akbari period in Agra Fort.

Khas Mahal:

It was built in 1636 and stands on a terrace in between River Jamuna and formal garden. There are two pavilions on either side of the Khas Mahal with bangle roofs a design resembling the curved thatched roofed huts of Bengal.
Time: Open from sunrise to sunset.

Fatehpur Sikri:

Located at the distance of 40 Km from Agra, Fatehpur Sikri is a small town in Agra and a famous tourist destination. It was built by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1571. Now a UNSECO world heritage site, it is home to Jodha Bai’s palace, Jama Mosque, Buland Darwaza, Panch Mahal and Tomb of Salim Chisti. The magnificence and uniqueness offers a fine example of the emperor’s architectural finesse. Akbar tolerant religious views and interest in literature and fine arts gave the building Fatehpur Sikri charismatic blend of Islamic and Hindu elements in their style and design.

Entry fee:
Indian Rs 50
Foreigners: Rs 550
Best time to visit October to March
Open: Every day from 6 am to 6 pm

Monuments within the Fatehpur Sikri:

Diwan-I Khas :

Built in Persian style, this building was the hall of private audience. Only the Royals assembled here to discuss private affairs. It has a roof with four chattris. Floral and geometrical designs increase the beauty of the base and the shaft. Furthermore, its thirty six meandering paths act as a support to Akbar’s platform. These are connected to every corner of the building on the first floor by four stone walkways.

Diwan-I-Aam :

Hall of public audience, it was meant to hold meetings and gatherings. This place was used to hear public grievances and give justice by the Emperor. Standing on 49 pillars the Diwan-i-aam consist of Jharokha typw chamber which is also known as Takht-I-Murassa. This place has beautiful decorations all over its pillars and walls. There is a jail screen on either sides separated the ladies attending the court.

Palace of Jodha Bai

Palace of Jodha Bai was one of the most beautiful building in the royal palace. The spacious palace was assured of privacy and security by high walls and a 9 meter guarded gate. The architecture is blend of styles with Hindu columns and Muslim cupolas.

Buland Darwaza:

Gate of Magnificence, the Buland Darwaza is a symbol of Akbar’s victory over Gujrat. It is the grand door that leads to Fatehpur Sikri from Agra. It took 12 years to complete the Buland Darwaza, it is made up of red sandstone and decorated with white and black marbles and it is 50 meters from the ground. The Darwaza can be approached from outside by a 13 meter flight of steps which adds to its grandeur.

Jama Masjid ( Friday Mosque)

One of the largest mosques in India, the Jama Masjid was built in 1571. It is a World Heritage site now. It is also known as Friday mosque and it is the most visited place in Agra. Devotees consider it as a pilgrimage destination. It consists of single dome with two colonnaded halls on each side. Inside there is a vast congregational court The mosque is a transition in Islamic Architecture mixed with that of Persian style.

Tomb of Salim Chisti

The tomb of Salim Chisti is framed as one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture in India, built in 1580.The main building of this tomb is enclosed by marble screens from all side. The door of the main chamber is carved beautifully with patters and inscriptions from the Quran and the marble made floor has multicolored stones laid over it. The inner chamber of the tomb consist of a wooden canopy where inlays the mosaic of the mother of pearl. Devotees from all over the world visit the tomb with the hope of fulfillment of their wishes. People tie threads over the marble screens as a reminder of their aspirations to Salim Chisti.

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Must Know Before You Visit Agra

Stay longer than a day.
Pre-book your Agra accommodation.
Negotiate with rickshaw drivers.
Check the weather and dress accordingly
Ignore people who approach.
Agra is not the best place for souvenir shopping
Do enjoy the amazing local food.
Factor in some down time.
Buy your monument tickets in advance, online.

FAQs on Agra

What is Agra known for?

Agra is known for being home to the iconic Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world.

How long does a typical Agra tour last?

A typical Agra tour can last anywhere from 1 to 2 days, depending on the itinerary and the pace of the tour.

What is the best time to visit Agra?

The best time to visit Agra is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

What are some must-visit attractions in Agra?

Apart from the Taj Mahal, other must-visit attractions in Agra include Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Itmad-ud-Daulah's Tomb, and Mehtab Bagh.

Is it possible to visit the Taj Mahal at night?

Yes, it is possible to visit the Taj Mahal at night on select days during a full moon. However, tickets must be purchased in advance.

What is the best way to explore Agra?

The best way to explore Agra is by hiring a local guide or joining a tour group. This way, you can learn about the history and significance of each site.

How can one travel to Agra?

Agra can be easily reached by air, train, or road. The nearest airport is the Agra Airport, and the city is well-connected by trains and highways to major cities in India.

Is Agra safe for tourists?

Yes, Agra is generally safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting popular tourist spots.

Are there any food specialties in Agra?

Yes, Agra is known for its Mughlai cuisine, and some must-try dishes include Mughlai biryani, tandoori chicken, and petha (a sweet made of pumpkin).

Is Agra only famous for the Taj Mahal?

No, Agra has many other historical and cultural attractions, such as Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and the Agra markets, that are worth exploring during a tour.